Topic 1: Potential and current benefits of synthetic biology

In paragraph 3(c) of the annex to decision 16/21, the Ad Hoc Technical Expert Group was tasked with identifying the current and potential benefits of synthetic biology in relation to the three objectives of the Convention and the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (decision (decision 15/4).

In this sense, the discussions are meant to be broad and focus on how the field of synthetic biology could positively contribute to three Objectives of the Convention (conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity and fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of genetic resources) and support the implementation of Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF), while also identifying the current benefits from the utilization of synthetic biology tools and applications. Some guiding questions could be:

• What potential benefits does synthetic biology have in relation to the three objectives of the Convention and the KMGBF?

• What current benefits have been concretely demonstrated through the use of synthetic biology in relation to the objectives of the Convention and the KMGBF?

When sharing information, clearly indicate which targets are being addressed and if possible, provide illustrative examples/case studies of synthetic biology applications. When sharing publications, it is kindly requested that the DOI links be provided.

Forum closed. No more comments will be accepted on this forum.

Topic 2: Most recent technological developments

In paragraph 3(d) and (e) of the annex to decision 16/21, the Ad Hoc Technical Expert Group was tasked with identifying the potential positive impacts and the potential negative impacts of the most recent technological developments in synthetic biology in relation to the three objectives of the Convention and the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (decision 15/4).

In 2019 and 2023, online discussions of this forum have sought to identify both recent developments in the field of synthetic biology. Similarly, the process for broad and regular horizon scanning, monitoring and assessment (CBD/SBSTTA/26/4), including the complementary literature analysis (CBD/SBSTTA/26/INF/5), also attempted to distil which technological developments should be highlighted to the Parties.

Thus, in this thread, the discussions will focus on the newest technological advances and key changes since the forum convened last. It will also be important to focus on what potential implications these most recent technological developments could have on the objectives of the Convention and the targets of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).

Thus, the discussions should center on:

• The most recent technological developments in the field of synthetic biology, particularly those that would be important to highlight to the AHTEG

• The potential positive impacts of these specific developments in relation to the objectives of the Convention and the targets of the KMGBF

• The potential negative impacts of these specific developments in relation to the objectives of the Convention and the targets of the KMGBF

When providing information, it is important to link the specific application to the potential positive or potential negative impacts. If possible, kindly also indicate how these could impact the Objectives of the Convention and the targets of the KMGBF.

When sharing publications, it is kindly requested that the DOI links be provided.

Forum closed. No more comments will be accepted on this forum.